The Séamus Ennis Arts Centre is excited to present 'The Buttonmen' a play that has seen growing popularity and sell out success accross the country and is described as a:

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‘Memorable picture of the last of the Dublin dockworkers…a poignant picture. Gary Cooke generates a superb singalong atmosphere’- Katy Hayes, Independent.

 

The play centres on two brothers Dessie and Gino Dunne, both dockers. Dessie the older brother is a Buttonman. The “Button” gives Dessie privileges and status over other dockers. Dessie loves the docks and the life of a docker. He connects with the history, customs and traditions of the place.

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Gino the younger brother on the other hand is a non “Buttonman”. He has no real love for the life of a docker and rallies against what he sees as a degrading and uncertain way to earn a living.

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Set in the early 1970’s change is coming to the docks of Dublin and lurking beneath the story of these two brothers is a dark underbelly of jealousy and addiction. As they talk and sing about their life on the docks of Dublin fear and danger are never far away.

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The Buttonmen contains new songs written by Gary Brown and internationally acclaimed singer songwriter Damien Dempsey.

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The play stars Gary Cooke as Dessie and Andrew Murray as Gino.

 

Written By: Gary Brown

Songs By: Damien Dempsey & Gary Brown

Cast: Gary Cooke & Andrew Murray

Duration:  2 acts 40 mins each with interval